Abstract: A high-frequency inverter having a simple circuit construction capable of executing a constant-frequency operation and a zero-volt switching operation and an induction heating cooker using the high-frequency inverter are disclosed. The high-frequency inverter is comprised of an inverter circuit for converting a direct current from a DC power source into a high-frequency current and a control circuit for controlling the inverter circuit. The inverter circuit is comprised of: a one-transistor inverter constructed of a heating coil whose one terminal is connected to one terminal of a DC power source, a first switching element connected in series between the other terminal of the heating coil and the other terminal of the DC power source, and a first resonance capacitor connected so as to form a resonance circuit with the heating coil; and a series circuit connected in parallel with the heating coil and constructed of a second switching element and a second resonance capacitor.

Abstract: In a switching device of an induction heating cooker, an oppositely poled diode for conducting a reverse current is coupled across the collector-emitter portion of a switching element provided in the first switching device, and turn-ON operation of the switching devices does not OCCUR in normal operation of the DUTY FACTOR T.sub.2 /T.sub.1 .apprxeq.0.5.